James Cook University in Queensland and the University of Tasmania have partnered to deliver the expanded‑scope training locally, with one of the residential modules now underway at the University of Tasmania’s Launceston campus.
The program — a 12‑month Graduate Certificate in Advanced Practice and Prescribing for Pharmacists — will enable pharmacists to treat more than 20 common health conditions once completed.
This training, delivered by James Cook University at the University of Tasmania, means community pharmacists will have the skills they need to treat more conditions – things like ear infections, shingles, or managing minor wounds.
PGA Tasmania Branch President Joe O'Malley
Tasmania Premier Jeremy Rockliff said they were delivering improved access to care across the State.
“We are supporting our community pharmacists to assess and treat more conditions, so Tasmanians can access the care they need, closer to home,” the Premier said.
“Our Government is strengthening our health system by making it easier for people to receive treatment for common conditions at pharmacies, while helping reduce pressure on GPs and hospitals."
President of PGA's Tasmania Branch Joe O’Malley said community pharmacists were enthusiastic about the training.
“Tasmania has some of the best community pharmacists in the country, and we’re proud to see these talented health professionals in training right now to expand their scope of practice," he said.
“To meet the needs of our patients and provide more options for them to access healthcare, we know we need every health professional making the most of their skills.
“This training, delivered by James Cook University at the University of Tasmania, means community pharmacists will have the skills they need to treat more conditions – things like ear infections, shingles, or managing minor wounds.”
Joe said pharmacists had already demonstrated safe, effective care as scope expanded in recent years — including treating uncomplicated UTIs, delivering a wider range of vaccinations, and providing hormonal contraception services following accredited training.
“Expanding community pharmacists’ scope of practice means better access to more health services for patients across Tasmania,” he said.
James Cook University is a major regional university headquartered in Queensland, with established advanced‑practice and pharmacist‑prescribing programs.
The University of Tasmania is the state’s public university, with campuses in Hobart, Launceston and Burnie, and is the primary higher‑education provider for Tasmania’s health workforce.
For more information on expanded scope of practice in community pharmacy, see: www.guild.org.au/programs/scope-of-practice
